Buy to Let Equity Release Explained in Simple Terms

Before we start, it is important to clarify the two types of buy-to-let equity release. Releasing equity from a buy-to-let is distinct from an equity-release mortgage on a buy-to-let.

Equity release on a buy-to-let is a process where an individual over 55 can access the capital they have accumulated on their property over the years. This can either be a lump sum or a monthly payment, depending on the client’s needs. Equity release specialists deal with these products, whereas mortgage brokers are usually CeMAP qualified.

Releasing equity from a buy-to-let mortgage, on the other hand, is a traditional way of releasing equity from a buy-to-let property, regardless of age or retirement status.

In this article, we will focus on releasing equity from a buy-to-let. However, it is important not to confuse it with an equity-release buy-to-let mortgage. If you require assistance with equity-release buy-to-let mortgage for those over 55, please contact us, and we will refer you to one of our affiliated companies.

What does it mean when you release equity on a buy to let?

Releasing equity on a buy-to-let means that if you own a buy-to-let and have built-up equity in the property, you can access this equity and use the money for various purposes such as additional property purchases or home improvements.

How do you release equity on a buy to let mortgage?

There are three main ways to release equity on a buy-to-let mortgage.

• Remortgaging your existing buy-to-let property is the most common way for an individual to access additional equity in their property. For example, if a client owns a property worth £200,000 and has an existing mortgage of £100,000, they can remortgage to a buy-to-let product with a loan-to-value (LTV) of 75%, which will give them access to £50,000 in excess cash.
• You don’t always have to remortgage your buy-to-let property. Instead, you could approach your existing lender for a further advance. This is where your existing lender will give you an additional lump sum and add it to your current mortgage.
• Finally, you can get a secured loan or a second charge against your buy-to-let property in order to access further equity. Generally speaking, this process tends to be more expensive, but many people use it, depending on their circumstances.

Can you release equity on a buy-to-let property?

Releasing Equity on a Buy to Let: Eligibility Criteria

When releasing equity on a buy-to-let mortgage, several eligibility criteria must be met.

1. A good credit score can help clients release the maximum amount at competitive rates.
2. Although existing income is beneficial, many lenders offer this type of product with no minimum income requirement.
3. The property must be structurally sound and suitable for lending purposes, and one of the biggest factors in releasing equity for buy-to-lets is the rental potential of the subject property.
4. The rental income must pass the stress test, and lenders often require sight of the assured short hold tenancy. For further discussion about eligibility criteria for releasing equity on buy-to-let properties.
5. Please call one of our expert mortgage brokers.

How much equity can you release from a buy to let?

It is possible to release up to 75% of the market value from existing buy-to-let properties. The exact amount that can be released depends on several factors.

1. The current worth of the property
2. Owner’s age
3. The amount of equity they have built up.

It is straightforward that a higher-valued property will allow for the release of more equity. However, most providers take the homeowner’s age into consideration when calculating the amount of equity that can be released. Older homeowners can generally release more equity from a buy-to-let property.

Pros and cons of releasing equity on Buy to Let?

The most obvious advantage of releasing equity through buy-to-let is the access to extra funds. This typically gives an individual more financial freedom to spend on various options.

However, the drawback of raising extra funds is that the monthly payments will increase. The client will need to make plans for how they will repay the additional funds borrowed. For more information on the best options to pay off the mortgage at the end of the term, please call one of our expert mortgage brokers.

What are the Alternatives of Buy to Let Equity Release?

As discussed earlier, secured loans and second charges are alternative options, but, in our opinion and experience, we advise clients to remortgage to achieve the most competitive rates.

How Can Expert Mortgage Advisors Help?